- Jun 8, 2004
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http://www.batadrums.com/background/abakua.htm
Abakua Music
The Afro-Cuban secret society and its music and religion
Abakua is a men's secret society in Cuba with customs, religion, and music derived from the Efik people of the Calabar area, in present-day Nigeria. Ndem Efik was a water deity, and Ekpe was a secret society related to the leopard, as well as a deity of the forest.
The musical instruments used are the biankomeko drums: Bonko-enchemiya (largest, lowest pitch, lead drum, playing variations), Obi-Apa (medium-low pitch), Kuchi-Yerema (medium-high pitch), & Biankome (highest pitch). The iron bell is called the Ekon or Banka. The drums are held under the left arm and played with the right bare hand, with taps played on the shell. The lead drum is played with both hands by a seated player.
pEACE!
ISAIAH
Abakua Music
The Afro-Cuban secret society and its music and religion
Abakua is a men's secret society in Cuba with customs, religion, and music derived from the Efik people of the Calabar area, in present-day Nigeria. Ndem Efik was a water deity, and Ekpe was a secret society related to the leopard, as well as a deity of the forest.
The musical instruments used are the biankomeko drums: Bonko-enchemiya (largest, lowest pitch, lead drum, playing variations), Obi-Apa (medium-low pitch), Kuchi-Yerema (medium-high pitch), & Biankome (highest pitch). The iron bell is called the Ekon or Banka. The drums are held under the left arm and played with the right bare hand, with taps played on the shell. The lead drum is played with both hands by a seated player.
pEACE!
ISAIAH